This month is Black History Month. So I found this building in Columbia SC that has some history behind it. This is a former African-American nightclub called the "Big Apple". It was originally a Jewish Synagogue. It became famous when some white students from the university visited the club and discovered a new dance called "The Big Apple". They spread the dance to the general public and it became very popular. It made it's way to New York City and eventually to Hollywood. The big Apple is now available for groups to rent out. Frankie Manning who was a famous dancer during the 30's in New York is going to hold an event at the big Apple this month. He was involved in originally bringing this dance to the general public. The dance has elements of the Charleston and the Lindy Hop which were very popular in New York clubs during the 20's and 30's. There has been a big controversy as to who originated the name "big Apple". This has become a nickname for New York City and there was a club there named "Big Apple" before the one in Columbia. Here are some links with some interesting history about the "Big Apple"
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Big_Apple_(dance)
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